Passengers Injured in Explosion

Several passengers on board a Royal Caribbean cruise ship were injured by an explosion near their vessel. The vessel, Independence of the Seas had been docked in Gibraltar when there was an explosion in a nearby fuel tank. 10-foot-high flames shot into the air. At least 10 passengers were injured seriously and required medical attention.

Cruise authorities say that they took steps immediately retract the gangway and move the ship away to safety as soon possible after the explosion occurred. It is believed the blast was caused by welding sparks from the tank. However, the possibility of an attack on the ship exists, and is being investigated.

Two persons on the tank were also injured seriously, including the welder who suffered burn injuries. A police officer was also injured during rescue operations. There was no damage to the Cruise vessel, and it continued on its journey to Cannes.